There are very few times in this world, when we have the opportunity to look pop culture square in the face and say, “no, thank you.”
Over the past few years, we had noticed Julia talking less and less about friends she had at school. She was telling us less about her day. We weren’t worried. We just thought she was very studious and concerned about grades.
This summer, she began to tell us stories about cursing and disrespect happening every day at school and on the bus. She shared with us a story of a young lady that had learned far too much far too soon when her parents were out of town one weekend. I could tell that Julia’s heart was broken for this girl. Brian and I began to have serious discussions about what we should do to help Julia. We began talking about finding a different school for her.
Is it likely that this happens everywhere? Maybe.
Is it possible that she would hear these stories everywhere she goes? Possibly.
But this summer, we took a chance. We found a school that fits our family.
“Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth”. – Pope John Paul IIÂ
Yesterday, I visited the school to take pictures for an upcoming event. When I walked into the classroom, the children stood up and greeted me. They introduced themselves and spoke with smiles and gentleness.
Upstairs is a small chapel. The children are welcome to stop and pray between classes or at lunch. If they are having a hard time or just need a break, they can take one.
I was pretty nervous about making this change. The school was farther away.
This would mean we would have different days off and breaks between Julia and Nate because of two different school year calendars.
I usually resist change at all costs. I like to sit in my little corner and not venture out too far.
Brian, thank you for leading our family into beauty. I am so thankful.
Now, Julia comes home full of joy with stories of friends and teachers and her day.
I’ve not only seen a change in Julia, but in our entire family.
Has your family made decisions about school? I’d love to hear!
Congrats on the decision. We had to do the same thing a few years ago after Aiden (in 2nd grade at the time) was coming home telling us about spiritual arguments he was having with his teacher and complaints about not being able to pray before tests. It has been awesome for him (and Hannah). I would not change a thing and thank God every day for the ability to send them to such a great school with great kids and great teachers.
I’m so glad you found a school that not only offers the academic challenge but also the spiritual guidance that Julia needed. I’m so glad to live in a country where there are so many educational choices so we can find the one that works for us. Some people don’t like that we have all these choices, but it’s because of these choices that we can find the place where our kids will flourish. And, in the end, that’s what’s really important.
I am so happy this change worked out for your family. The most difficult decision we have had to make regarding school. Is preschool at home or pay for it? Start Kindergarten early or hold him at home another year. No firm plans or decisions yet.